8 October 2013 - Mutual cooperation and understanding were vital in solving community problems, the head of UNMISS’ Civil-Military Cooperation (CIMIC) section said today in Aweil East County, Northern Bahr El-Ghazal State.

Commander Seren Rugaard-Larsen was speaking at the launch of community work to be jointly carried out by Sudan People’s Liberation Army (SPLA) soldiers, UNMISS Kenyan peacekeepers, and residents of Manyeil Payam.

Aimed at strengthening relations between the three groups, the work includes digging ditches for drainage, draining and covering swamps, planting seedlings, cleaning streets and cutting grass around houses.

“This is a good beginning and I hope the work will spread not only to all communities in Northern Bahr El-Ghazal State but all states across South Sudan,” Commander Rugaard-Larsen said.

Over the last two months, UNMISS and the SPLA have also constructed two boreholes through the mission’s Quick Impact Projects to assist local communities in tackling challenges.

“Our key problems are water and inadequate health facilities,” said Manyeil Payam Administrator James Bol Anei, noting that UNMISS and SPLA efforts would motivate the local community to participate in community work.

SPLA Commander Lt. Gen. William Manyang Manyang said the national army would continue to work with UNMISS in similar activities.